Wales Rally GB is due to return to Conwy county in November after a commitment of continued financial backing by the Welsh Government.

Economy minister Edwina Hart has pledged up to £1.5m for both 2014 and 2015.

Last year’s event which started in Conwy and finished in Llandudno, with a service park and rally headquarters on Deeside, was one of the most successful on record. It gave the region a multi-million pound boost, attracting thousands of spectators and watched by 600 million TV viewers worldwide.

Ms Hart said: ”Wales Rally GB is one of our flagship events which gets worldwide coverage, so I am particularly pleased that efforts to revitalise the event and attract more spectators and entries are paying off.

“The people of North and Mid Wales are incredibly supportive of the event and local authorities and businesses have all reported increased economic activity in the area due to the rally.

“We want to maximise the benefits coming to Wales and build on this momentum which is why I have agreed in principle funding for Wales Rally GB over the next two years.”

Conwy County Council cabinet member Graham Rees said: “This is very exciting news for North Wales. Last year’s event was hugely popular, it showcased the region around the world. We hope Conwy county borough can be part of the rally again this year and we’re working closely with the organisers.”

Andrew Coe, chief executive of rally organiser International Motor Sports, said: “We are, of course, absolutely delighted for the on-going commitment from the Welsh Government. The move to a new base in North Wales really revitalised the event in 2013 and we are already making exciting plans to build on that success with an even bigger and better Wales Rally GB in November.

“We now also have the fillip of a top Welsh driver, Elfyn Evans, competing in a front-running world championship team and that's another major boost both for Wales Rally GB and the sporting scene in Wales.”

Alyn Edwards, of the North Wales Car Club who is also part of the Wales Rally GB organising team, said: “Bringing the rally to North Wales proved a huge success. The feedback from the teams and spectators was very enthusiastic. Planning for this year’s rally has started and could see some new North Wales stages.”